Child CPR (Ages 1 to Puberty): What Changes
Child CPR (ages 1 to puberty) uses one- or two-handed compressions about 2 inches deep at 100–120 per minute, with rescue breaths because most pediatric arrests are respiratory in origin. Caring People Rescue offers in-person and blended CPR courses if you're ready to certify.
- Depth: about 2 inches (one-third the chest depth)
- Single rescuer: 30:2; two rescuers: 15:2
- Lone rescuer: 2 minutes of CPR before leaving to call 911
- Use pediatric AED pads when available
Why breaths matter more in children
Most pediatric cardiac arrests follow respiratory failure, so adding rescue breaths restores oxygen the heart desperately needs.
Hand technique
Use one or two hands depending on the child's size. Compress the lower half of the sternum to about one-third the depth of the chest.
Prefer learning hands-on? Caring People Rescue runs in-person and blended child cpr (ages 1 to puberty) classes with certified instructors — visit www.caringpeoplerescue.com to reserve a seat.
AED for children
Use pediatric pads or a pediatric attenuator key if available. If not, use adult pads — defibrillation is preferable to no defibrillation.
Frequently asked questions
- What age is 'child' for CPR?
- From 1 year to the onset of puberty. Use adult CPR after puberty.
- Can I use an adult AED on a child?
- Yes if no pediatric pads are available — place pads so they do not touch and consider front-back placement.
- How long do I do CPR before calling 911?
- Give 2 minutes of CPR before leaving a child to call if you are alone with no phone.